Hemorrhagic fever in Saudi Arabia: challenge to public health, effective management and future considerations

Abstract

Background: Viral hemorrhagic fevers (VHF) refers to a group of febrile illnesses caused by different viruses that result in high mortality in animals and humans. Many risk factors like increased human-animal interactions, climate change, increased mobility of people and limited diagnostic facility have contributed to the rapid spread of VHF.

Materials: The history of VHFs in the Saudi Arabian Peninsula has been documented since the 19^th century, in which many outbreaks have been reported from the southwestern region of Saudi Arabia. Despite presence of regional network of experts and technical organizations, which expedite support and respond during outbreaks, there are some more challenges that need to be addressed immediately. Gaps in funding, exhaustive and inclusive response plans and improved surveillance systems are some areas of concern in the region which can be dealt productively. This review primarily focusses on the hemorrhagic fevers that are caused by three most common viruses namely, the Alkhurma hemorrhagic fever virus, Rift valley fever virus, and Dengue fever virus.

Conclusion: In summary, effective vector control, health education, possible use of vaccine and concerted synchronized efforts between different government organizations and private research institutions will help in planning effective outbreak-prevention and response strategies in future.

Keywords: Saudi Arabia; Viral fever; challenges; future considerations; hemorrhagic fever (VHF); management.

Fig. 1

Regions in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, where people were infected with Alkhurma Hemorrhagic Fever Virus (AHFV). Red circles designate the areas with confirmed AHFV cases, while blue circles designate the areas of serologically positive individuals.

Fig. 2

Ecology of Rift Valley Fever (RVF). Courtesy of the Center for Disease Control, Atlanta, Georgia.

Figure 3

Presumptive diagnosis of different Dengue stages based on specific symptoms. Adopted from ‘Dengue Guidelines for diagnosis, treatment, prevention and control, New edn., WHO, Geneva, Switzerland, 2009’.